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  • MONDAY MEMO NO. 21

    MONDAY MEMO NO. 21

    METALLIC WINE GLASS MARKERS

    Disposable wine glasses are the worst, but so is drinking someone else’s Sancerre by accident.  I love these wine glass markers for keeping track of “whose wine is it anyway.”  The best part is that they are easily erasable and come in cool, grown-up colors, so your elegant Oregon pinot noir with subtle tannins doesn’t look like it’s covered in a 4-year-old’s refrigerator art.

    MY FAVORITE PAJAMAS ON MAJOR SALE

    Craving something comfy and/or need a cute outfit for your next Netflix binge sesh? There’s really no need to look further than these pajamas (and shortie version here!). They’re my absolute favorite, I have them in multiple colors, and they’re currently on sale.  Imagine the softest, most lounge-worthy pajamas you’ve ever owned?  These are better. (And less than $50!)

    THE BLENDER EVERYONE SHOULD OWN

    I hate playing favorites with kitchen appliances but…actually you know what, I don’t hate playing favorites with kitchen appliances. This one wins. Every time. If you’ve been pondering a Vitamix purchase, I really think you should go for it.  Pricey, yes.  An investment in your health that also saves you loads of time and cooking frustration?  Also yes.  I use this beast for everything.  You can read up on it here, but it’s so much more than your traditional blender.  I use it everyday for smoothies, but also make soups, complete prepwork (it chops like nobody’s business), and the list is honestly endless.  

    VITAMIX BLENDING CUPS

    If you’re thinking about the Vitamix or already own one, you should also think about outfitting your Vitamix with these massively convenient blending cups.  They allow you to blend a personalized smoothie or protein shake right in the cup, then just throw a lid on top and go.  We find them much easier to use for quick smoothies than the larger Vitamix container.  Also, it’s just more fun to whip up personalized blends every morning like some kind of smoothie sommelier.

    DAILY HARVEST SMOOTHIES

    While I’m on a Vitamix roll, one of my favorite things to throw in my blender and go is a Daily Harvest smoothie. There is literally no easier way to make breakfast, short of not actually making breakfast—and even still, these will probably be healthier than anything you’re actually making.  You’ve probably seen these all over your instagram feed (which is how I discovered them) but they really are worth the hype.  Each smoothie cup contains everything you need for a nutrient-packed smoothie, you just add almond milk (or the liquid of your choice), blend, and go.  The Vitamix blends them perfectly (it does everything perfectly, seriously this appliance is genius), and there are endless smoothie flavors to choose from. They arrive ready to freeze and use whenever you want one. Which will be every single day, trust me.

    MY FAVORITE YOGA PANTS

    All pants should be yoga pants. This shouldn’t even be a discussion. They’re endlessly functional, regardless of whether you’re ready for intense cardio or just like…a nice walk. We live in them, so we should love them.  These leggings in particular bring an extra bit of genius, because not only are they amazingly buttery and comfortable—holding you in in all the right places without suffocating—but you can also customize them with the waistband and length that you like most. The price is also unbeatable for the quality (which is top notch) and customizability you get here.  Personally, I’m obsessed with the criss-cross waistband.

    Mary Orton

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  • The Best Vintage Furniture and Decor Stores in NYC & Online!

    The Best Vintage Furniture and Decor Stores in NYC & Online!

    TOP: Diane von Furstenberg  |  JEANS: Goldsign (sold out, similar options HERE and HERE)  | HAT: Janessa Leone (sold out, similar HERE and affordable alternative HERE)  |  SANDALS: Veronica Beard (affordable alternatives HERE and HERE)  |  BAG: Cult Gaia  |  LIPS: Nars Lip Pigment (Under My Thumb)  |  EARRINGS: BaubleBar When it comes to home decor, I’m all about great pieces that you can score at the “big box” retailers we all know and love—you know, the CB2s and Pottery Barns of the world.  However, when it comes to really making your home feel like your home, I’ve always been drawn to the unique charm, character and personality that vintage and antique furniture can bring to a space.  Today, much of the furniture in our home—whether it’s our vintage Marcel Breuer dining chairs or the large burlwood cabinet in our living room—are antique pieces found at vintage furniture stores.  Today, I’m rounding up the best spots both in NYC and online where you can find gems like these!

    I spent a good amount of time on my most recent Paris trip (all of my Paris trips, actually) searching for treasures at the flea markets in St. Ouen.  It’s a vintage and antique PARADISE and I can’t recommend a visit highly enough as there’s no shortage of opportunities to discover something amazing.  However, I don’t necessarily want to always have to cross an ocean to find something truly unique when it comes to home decor.  Closer to home, there are a few favorite destinations of mine for stumbling on something spectacular.  And if you don’t live in New York, fear not, the good ol’ internet will never let you down.

    THE BEST ANTIQUE & VINTAGE FURNITURE AND DECOR STORES IN NYC:

    Repop: You know those stores you can’t walk past without feeling like you’ve made a huge mistake?  This is one of them.  Even if you’re not in the market, it’s hard to ignore a store this fun.  Gorgeous, high quality vintage finds so special that you feel like you really are in a different time are in high supply here.  The quality is excellent and you get the sense that everything is priced as exactly as it should be.  Make a Brooklyn vintage-ing day out of it with a few more of the locations below.

    Brooklyn Reclamation: “Reclaimed” is the word you want to hear when you’re in the mood for a good vintage dig.  In addition to furniture, this place also offers custom pieces using reclaimed materials you can explore in-store.  This is perfect for anyone who loves vintage, but appreciates a good industrial piece as well! Fans of unique surfaces and tabletops will get lost here for hours.

    Open Air Modern: Think of this as your mid-century modern emporium. Everything you’ve ever seen in someone’s stunning Apartment Therapy home tour and craved. It’s all here and in incredible condition. The highly curated nature of this showroom means that it’s less of a hunt or adventure, and more of a big-spender investment, but for the right piece, that’s just fine.

    I Like Mikes: If you’re pretty much set on the furniture front and want to take things next-level, from accessories to decor pieces and art, you really need to see this place. It’s easy to get lost in the midst of vintage inspirations like antique clocks and Mad Men-esque ice buckets and come home with way more than you intended to, but I don’t necessarily see that as bad thing when we’re talking vintage.  Try not to buy an antique phone. I dare you.

    Olde Good Things: A New York City staple, Olde Good Things is one of those “oh I’ll just look around” stores that you then walk out of with a new dining hutch and antique chandelier.  This place is timeless, which is funny because they sell vintage and antiques, but it’s hard to think of a more go-to spot in our beloved Big Apple.

    TOP ANTIQUE & VINTAGE FURNITURE & DECOR STORES ONLINE:

    AptDeco:  Anyone into shopping vintage furniture online has to be a fan of the thrill of the hunt.  If you think you’re going to find a pristine smoked glass coffee table in 20 minutes, we need to talk.  But don’t worry, on AptDeco, the hunt is likely to go really, really well.  It is a buy/sell platform (with delivery starting at $35!), and while it’s not exclusively vintage, if you don’t mind glossing over the occasional Ikea dresser, you can find some real gems here, at fantastic prices.

    Chairish: Maybe the most genius idea in vintage furniture sales, ever, Chairish is Craigslist without the crap. This site is stocked with insanely rare, curated furniture finds, plus decor pieces and art, too! It’s a lot to look through, but if you have an eye (and a budget!) for truly amazing, original vintage furniture, start here.

    Etsy: It’s really hard to compete with Etsy.  The massive volume here means that there are well-priced and unique items aplenty.  You might get lost among mid-century dressers and wicker chairs and wonder where the last two hours went, but for some of us that’s a hot Wednesday night well-spent.  Experiment with search terms to find just what you’re looking for.

    Everything But The House:  If, like me, vintage furniture hunting is truly something you consider a sport, consider the auctions.  Everything But The House will have a smaller selection than the Etsys of the world, but nonetheless it’s an incredible (and fun!) source for striking gold.  Case in point, four Heywood-Wakefield chairs currently bidding at $65 for the set! Are we all about to get really into auctions again?  I think so.

    1stDibs: It’s hard to argue with this antique and vintage mainstay.  While certainly pushing a higher price point than others, for those who know what they want (and know they want it in perfect condition), this is your one-stop shop for treasure.  Brace yourself for nonstop compliments from friends, and the occasional mini heart-attack when anything spills within ten feet of your prize.

    TOP: Diane von Furstenberg  |  JEANS: Goldsign (sold out, similar options HERE and HERE)  | HAT: Janessa Leone (sold out, similar HERE and affordable alternative HERE)  |  SANDALS: Veronica Beard (affordable alternatives HERE and HERE)  |  BAG: Cult Gaia  |  LIPS: Nars Lip Pigment (Under My Thumb)  |  EARRINGS: BaubleBar

    Mary Orton

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  • Pretty Woman Vibes: The Brown Polka Dot Set

    Pretty Woman Vibes: The Brown Polka Dot Set

    Oh hi, this is me wearing polka dots in Paris. Polka dots in Paris is just a fun phrase to say. It’s also an outfit I really loved wearing, and want to talk about for awhile. Let’s begin:

    If this print feels familiar to you, it absolutely should.  All-around icon Julia Roberts wore a brown polka dot dress in the 1990 cinema classic Pretty Woman, during a polo match scene and since then, roughly 58% of the human population still hasn’t managed to pick their bottom jaw up off the floor.  This print will also feel familiar because it’s… kinda everywhere right now (in a good way). It’s that perfect mix of trendy and timeless that only shows up when a long-loved style moment takes another turn in the spotlight. This print is the perfect example.


    A lot can happen with prints, and it can be tough to find one that feels as polished, timeless, and as poignant as you want it to, without feeling like you’re being overpowered and the print is wearing you. That’s where the brown polka dot look is genius. It’s fun, but not too fun. It’s a print, but it’s not crazy. It’s classic so it’ll never fall out of favor.  And watch out leopard print, polka dots are nearing “new neutral” status as designs for 2018 and beyond are making a strong case for putting this print in regular rotation.

    This look is actually two pieces by DVF, the High-Waisted Draped Satin Maxi Skirt and the Short-Sleeve Raglan High Neck Satin Blouse, which I chose for a luncheon while in Paris for work (and a little play).  The line and impact of the pieces are so strong, you can see it barely requires anything extra—just a rosy lip (in color Bois de Rose) and white Lolita sunnies and you’re essentially done. Though, to be fair I feel like a rosy lip and white Lolita sunnies can complete several summer looks this year.

    PRADA

    Cahier Bag (affordable alternative HERE)

    I’ve rounded up a few more favorite polka dot pieces below, but however you rock this trend, keep accessories sleek and simple like my white heel and mini bag. The dots in the look I’m wearing are actually slightly smaller and more tightly grouped than other designs I’ve seen, but each variation still retains that timeless femininity you’re looking for in this print. If you’ve been searching for a work-to-play look for packed summer days, you just found it.

    Mary Orton

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  • Monday Memo No. 20

    Monday Memo No. 20
    Monday Memo No.20 fall entertaining tips

    Monday Memo No.20

    FOOLPROOF OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING TIPS

    ICYMI, recently shared a few no-fail tips for easy summer hosting, including a delish white peach sangria recipe and a simple, scrumptious watermelon feta skewer that features the best of summer produce.  We’re about to embark on a week-long rainy streak here in New York (my hair and I are equally upset). But don’t forget that there’s still a full month of official summer left.  It’s never easier to host a delicious, stylish get-together (even last-minute!) than it is in the warmer months. So call (who are we kidding, email) your #1s and invite them over for outdoor hangtime.  Whether you host on your roof, your fire escape, your back patio or your closest park, it’s time to carpe diem. 

    DOUBLE-WALLED MUGS

    DOUBLE-WALLED MUGS YOU NEED TO TRY

    I know we all settle into that “favorite” coffee mug or teacup. But this cool, clear set makes a STRONG case for a change.  The price is unbeatable, at $25 for the set, and they’re double-walled which means they keep hot drinks hot (and I mean HOT) for way longer than your traditional mug. PLUS the double walls mean they’re never too hot to hold.  If you’re a tea drinker, the glass mugs make it easy to see if your tea has steeped the way you like it.  Also, there’s something about these mugs that reminds me of science class, in a super chic, visually appealing way.  

    tile for keys

    NEVER LOSE YOUR KEYS AGAIN

    Attention all forgetful, disorganized, and/or busy people:  Tiles are a lifesaver. Just attach a Tile to anything you’re prone to lose (your keys, your phone, your boyfriend), and have a little more peace of mind knowing your days of tearing your home apart in search are officially over.  The Tile app keeps track of the last location of your Tile. And also “calls” your Tile to make it ring when you need to locate something.  And, if you lose your phone itself, press a button on any of your Tiles, and it will ring–even on silent. 

    DHC Deep Cleansing Oil | Monday Memo No. 20

    The Best Face Cleanser

    Some recommendations come with more feedback than others. And I’m thrilled to see that you guys really liked this one. I’ve mentioned DHC Deep Cleansing Oil in the past when I did a deep-dive into how to properly clean your face in this post (definitely read if you haven’t!).  But, after sharing it again in my Insta stories last week, I was so happy to hear that MANY of you have fallen in love with it too, since ordering it after reading my post.  I’ve found it to be an essential part of my two-step cleansing routine. And apparently, I’m not the only one. 

    The most common messages I’m receiving are (1) that you expected your skin to feel greasy or oily afterwards. But instead your skin has never felt cleaner or more hydrated; (2) you expected your skin to produce more oil afterwards throughout the day, when in fact you experienced less shiny/oiliness after using this product; and (3) you’ve never felt so deceived by all of the face wash companies convincing you for years that you had to strip your face with harsh products to really get it “clean.”  Bottom line, if you haven’t tried this stuff, run, don’t walk.  And if you have, stock up on more here.  

    Power Crunch Protein Bars. Monday Memo No. 20

    MY FAVORITE PROTEIN BARS

    Let me put this out there–I’m not a big energy/protein bar fan.  Protein bars are honestly pretty lackluster when it comes to flavor. And I’d typically prefer to get my protein in with either a well-balanced meal with lots of protein or a protein shake if I’m on the go.  Maybe I’m asking for too much, but I’m looking for something that tastes good and makes an impact.  Enter Power Crunch Protein Bars.  These are the best protein bars on the market. And the only protein bars I buy—and even then, I purchase them ONLY in the peanut butter flavor.

    They live in my bag and they’re the only food in bar format I actually look forward to eating after a workout or in-between meetings.  You can read a full review here if you want to dive deeper. But they are very low in sugar and have an excellent protein to calories ratio.  

    Cashmere Maxi Cardigan | Monday Memo No. 20

    The Cashmere Maxi Cardigan You Will Never Take Off

    The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is open to the public and still going STRONG.  Yesterday, I shared a few favorite sale picks in addition to my post outlining the best ways to navigate the sale. I keep going back to the sale and making new discoveries each time, most recently, THIS MAGNIFICENT HOODED CASHMERE DUSTER.  I ordered the oatmeal color, but after receiving it and realizing that I will actually LIVE in this all fall and winter, I’m going back for the grey.  

    THE STAIRCASE netflix | Monday Memo No. 20

    BINGE-WATCH: THE STAIRCASE

    People used to chat about a hot new TV show around the office watercooler.  Now we just DM each other.  If you’re looking for something new to Netflix, please join Rich and me in our obsession with The Staircase.  Anyone who’s into a good real-life mystery like Making A Murderer or Evil Genius will be instantly hooked.  The series originally aired in 2004, and a new season was just released showing how the case, and those affected by it, have changed over time.  Utterly fascinating.

    Mary Orton

  • The Summer-To-Fall Dress You Need To Score On Sale

    The Summer-To-Fall Dress You Need To Score On Sale
    plaid summer-to-fall dress
    perfect summer-to-fall dress

    DRESS: 1901  |  SHOES: Veronica Beard  |  BAG: Cult Gaia  |  SUNGLASSES: Karen Walker (sold out in tortoise, black version HERE and similar pair HERE)  |  EARRINGS: BaubleBar  |  LIPSTICK: Nars Lip Pigment (starwoman)

     

    If you only buy one dress from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (I know, I can’t even type that sentence without laughing, obvs buying more), this is the dress (or one of its monochromatic sisters here). I’ve expressed my love for this sale before, but as it’s been happening, I’ve come across more and more delights that I feel compelled to share.  You know how you get really sick of going back into sales and looking for more finds you may have missed?  Yeah…me neither.  So I dove in again and found some gems…

    Pro tip!  This sale is so popular that items often sell out.  HOWEVER, if you find something you love that’s sold out, keep checking back.  They continually restock items throughout the sale, so odds are you’ll be able to snag it again!

    Now read on for the best of the best…

    summer-to-fall dress nordstrom sale
    plaid shirtdress

    In my opinion, you can never go wrong with a classic shirt dress—their versatility is endless.  While the one I’m wearing is certainly a versatility overachiever, it’s also an amazing transition piece. Ooooh, I know, I said the t-word before August, forgive me.  But this dress, apart from being an effortless staple for summertime hangouts, is also just a layering piece and pair of booties away from being your favorite dress for fall.  Not feeling the plaid?  It comes in other colors, too, which are not to be missed!  

    Each of these beauties is under $100!

    summer dress

    Another perfect reason to shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale?  Travel.  Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but eventually there’s going to be a boarding pass with your name on it, and this sweater is going to come in very handy on the flight.  It’s simply the coziest–I have it in two colors and keep one on the back of my desk chair.  

     
    plaid dress

    Naturally, there are sale finds we love to scoop up to have on hand as hostess gifts. Or at least that’s what we tell ourselves. I dare you not to break into literally the best candles on the planet almost immediately. If your nightstand or coffee table tray feels incomplete, add one of these and maybe the occasional hydrangea.  Done.  Another option, and just as amazing, these are a delight to gift at the holidays for more than one person on your list.

    summer-to-fall dress


    All this talk of candles and bedside tables means it’s time to talk LOUNGEWEAR. Couch-only nights no longer call for bottom-of-drawer tee shirts from college and whatever pair of sweats is least coffee-stained.  Up your doing-nothing wardrobe, you will never, ever regret it.  These are some of the softest, best quality PJs ever, with plenty of colors to choose from.  I kid you not, I own at least seven pairs.  I stock up on these suckers every year during this sale.

     summer-to-fall outfit

    Then of course there’s the logical sale move–stuff you use often, and use up.  For some reason, the beauty section is often overlooked in this massive sale, and that’s a darn shame.  Beauty Blenders are a perfect example of replenishing your stock at a steal, but I’m extra in love with this set because of the cool travel sleeves!

     checkered dress

    There’s no regret like a sale un-shopped.  Do not skip the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, there are just too many amazing finds you’ll wear and love all year. (And probably brag about forever.)

    plaid outfit idea
    plaid shirtdress

    DRESS: 1901  |  SHOES: Veronica Beard  |  BAG: Cult Gaia  |  SUNGLASSES: Karen Walker (sold out in tortoise, black version HERE and similar pair HERE)  |  EARRINGS: BaubleBar  |  LIPSTICK: Nars Lip Pigment (Starwoman)

     Thanks to Nordstrom and ShopStyle for partnering on this post!

    Mary Orton